Celtic’s draw against Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia keeps the club on track for a Champions League play-off place.
Sitting on nine points and three points off the automatic qualification places, Celtic’s stalemate against Dinamo Zagreb still leaves Brendan Rodgers’ hopes of getting out of the Champions League phase in his own hands.
However, the well-earned point didn’t come without a cost after Celtic defender, Alistair Johnston, was subbed off after a tackle left the Canadian in pain.
Speaking after the match, Rodgers gave an update on the Hoops hero and shared whether or not he will be fit for Celtic’s upcoming League Cup final against Rangers.
Alistair Johnston’s fitness ahead of Celtic vs Rangers League Cup final
The Celtic boss seemed fairly positive about Johnston’s fitness ahead of the big Hampden final as he gave an update on his dynamic fullback.
Rodgers said, “Yeah, from the tackle on the side, I think it was his hip flexor or so, nothing sort of muscular, which is good.
“So, just felt a bit of pain, and half time, there was no need to risk that really. He got through to halftime really well.
“So, all being well, that will settle down in the next couple of days.”
Celtic defender Alistair Johnston’s terrific record vs Rangers
To win against Rangers, Johnston will be crucial for Celtic’s chances of lifting the League Cup, especially when you look at the Canadian’s record against the Ibrox club.
Johnston has faced Rangers ten times since he joined Celtic just under two years ago and is, remarkably, unbeaten against the Glasgow rivals.
Winning eight and drawing two, Johnston has also scored against Philippe Clement’s side in a 3-0 at Celtic Park this season.
The fullback was missed in the final 45 minutes of Celtic’s Champions League draw with Zagreb and there is no doubt his pace, power and aggression will increase the Bhoys’ chances of more Hampden joy.
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